Cars.com Announces Best Bets for 2012 Models

Unlike our awards, which call out the absolute top models, Best Bets include any vehicle you can be confident in buying. We have four criteria in determining which cars to recommend:

The car must get average or better fuel economy for its segment
The car must have average or better reliability
The car must get average or better scores in crash tests (although we do have some exceptions for low-volume models that are not crash-tested)
And Cars.com’s editors must endorse the car as well.

In years past, we’ve rolled these out mostly in one shot, but this year we’re trying something new. As more 2012 models are tested and rated, we’ll keep adding to the list when new information warrants it, so check back on KickingTires to see which models have gained our recommendations.

Compact SUVs and Crossovers